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Derbyshire County Cricket Club has captured South Africa international Albie Morkel as their second overseas signing for this season’s Friends Life t20 competition.

The 32-year-old all-rounder, who recently participated in his sixth Indian Premier League campaign, will feature in nine of Derbyshire’s ten Twenty20 fixtures.

Since making his debut in 2005, the big-hitting middle-order batsman has featured in 42 Twenty20 Internationals, scoring over 500 runs at a strike rate of 142.73 and claiming 22 wickets.

Morkel will form an overseas duo with Shivnarine Chanderpaul during the tournament who has confirmed that he will remain with Derbyshire throughout the season and will not take part in the Caribbean Premier League.

Head Coach Karl Krikken said: “We are delighted to bring Albie to Derbyshire. He is an international cricketer with loads of knowledge and experience of limited-overs cricket to bring to our young side.

“His track record with bat and ball is proven and he has played Twenty20 cricket at the highest level all over the world.

“Our members and supporters can look forward to seeing an explosive batsman who can also bowl with good pace and control, potentially at the death.

“He will play a key role in the side and we are all looking forward to welcoming him to the Club for what looks like an exciting Twenty20 campaign.

“Albie has played local league cricket at one of our out-grounds, Leek, and he still has some close connections with the area. The strong relationship we have with our pals at Leek Cricket Club has, I‘m sure, had a bearing on Albie’s decision.”

Morkel added: “I’ve always enjoyed the challenge of playing in England and although I initially hadn’t considered playing county cricket this season, the timing has worked out well and I am really looking forward to contributing to Derbyshire."

Supporters who buy tickets in advance for the Friends Life t20 competition will benefit from discounted prices of £12 adults, £4 juniors and £4 car parking; available online here or by calling 01332 388 101.

A further £2 discount is available per adult ticket for a group containing four or more adults and – new for 2013 – the Six Pack Ticket allows entry to six matches for just £55.

Junior Membership is priced at £10 – therefore; a parent and child can attend six matches this season for a total of just £65.

Tickets are also available on the gate priced at £16 adults, £5 juniors and £5 car parking.